East Bengal FC opens IFA Shield 2026 with 3-1 win
East Bengal FC began their IFA Shield 2026 campaign with a 3-1 victory over Calcutta Customs FC, coming from behind with goals from Rohit Danu and Akash
East Bengal FC secured a 3-1 opening win over Calcutta Customs FC in the IFA Shield 2026. The result gives the record champions a strong start in Group B as they aim to end an eight-year trophy drought in India's oldest knockout tournament.
Calcutta Customs FC took a surprise early lead through Riki Gharami in the 11th minute. East Bengal defender Gourab Shaw failed to judge the ball on the play. The home side equalized before halftime when Rohit Kumar powered in a header from a corner kick. The second half saw East Bengal take control. Rohit Danu scored from a cross to put his side ahead. Akash Hemram then sealed the victory with a goal in the final minute. Coach Bino George noted the impact of his attackers, saying, "The goals scored by Rohit Danu and Akash Hemram sealed the game for Bino George’s side."
Group standings and qualification context
With the win, East Bengal FC leads Group B with three points and a +2 goal difference. Only the top two teams from each group will advance to the semifinal knockout stage. The group stage is short, making every match key for qualification.
| Team | Points | Goal Difference |
|---|---|---|
| East Bengal FC | 3 | +2 |
| Punjab FC | 0 | 0 |
| Calcutta Customs FC | 0 | -2 |
Tournament context and rival's result
The IFA Shield 2026 is now fully underway. In the match preceding East Bengal's victory, fellow Indian Super League giants Mohun Bagan delivered a dominant performance. They defeated IFL side Sreenidi Deccan FC 6-0 to take early command of Group A.
| Group | Leader | Points | Goal Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | Mohun Bagan | 3 | +6 |
| B | East Bengal FC | 3 | +2 |
Group A consists of Mohun Bagan, NorthEast United FC, and Sreenidi Deccan FC. Their next fixture sees NorthEast United face Sreenidi Deccan on September 26.
Team background and title ambition
East Bengal FC carries significant pedigree into the competition. They are the current Indian Super League and Durand Cup champions. Their history in the IFA Shield is unmatched, having won the tournament a record 29 times. This legacy fuels their ambition to reclaim the Shield after an eight-year absence.
Upcoming fixtures and tournament progress
The focus now shifts to the next round of group matches. In Group B, Punjab FC, another ISL side making its tournament debut, will face Calcutta Customs FC on September 27. East Bengal FC, having secured what was described as "the first victory in the IFA Shield 2026 at the East Bengal Ground against a stern Calcutta Customs FC," will next prepare for their match against Punjab FC. Defenders Narender Gahlot and Monotosh Chakladar, who worked to counter the threat of Calcutta Customs winger Riki Gharami, will be key in that encounter. The date for East Bengal's next match is yet to be confirmed.
